JOINT RESOLUTIONS
Approving the Policy of the President of the United States, in reference to
the Reconstruction of the Union. Adopted February 6, 1866.
1. Resolved by the General Assembly of Virginia, That the people of
this Commonwealth, and their representatives here assembled, cordially
approve the policy pursued by Andrew Johnson, President of the United
States, in the reorganization of the Union. We accept the result of the
late contest, and do not desire to renew what has been so conclusively determined;
nor do we mean to permit any one, subject to our control, to
attempt its renewal, or to violate any of our obligations to the United
States Government. We mean to co-operate in the wise, firm, and just
policy adopted by the President, with all the energy and power we can
devote to that object.
2. That the above declaration expresses the sentiments and purposes
of all our people; and we denounce the efforts of those who represent our
views and intentions to be different, as cruel and criminal assaults on our
character and our interests. It is one of the misfortunes of our present
political condition, that we have among us persons whose interests are
temporarily promoted by such false representations; but we rely on the
intelligence and integrity of those who wield the powers of the United
States Government, for our safeguard against such malign influences.
3. That involuntary servitude, except for crime, is abolished, and
ought not to be re-established; and that the negro race among us should
be treated with justice, humanity, and good faith; and every means that
the wisdom of the Legislature can devise, should be used to make them
useful and intelligent members of society.
4. That Virginia will not voluntarily consent to change the adjustment
of political power fixed by the Constitution of the United States;
and to constrain her to do so in her present prostrate and helpless condition,
with no voice in the councils of the nation, would be an unjustifiable
breach of faith; and that her earnest thanks are due to the President for
the firm stand he has taken against amendments of the Constitution,
forced through in the present condition of affairs.
5. That a committee of eight be appointed, five on the part of this
House and three on the part of the Senate, whose duty it shall be to proceed
to Washington City, and present the foregoing resolutions to the President
of the United States.
